U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Polar Star Completes 65-Day Antarctic Mission for Operation Deep Freeze 2025

The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Polar Star and its crew have completed a 65-day mission in the Antarctic region as part of Operation Deep Freeze 2025. This operation, led by the U.S. Antarctic Program in collaboration with the Department of Defense, aims to support the U.S. National Science Foundation’s research efforts in Antarctica. The mission involved a wide range of activities, including icebreaking duties in McMurdo Sound to ensure safe passage for cargo vessels to McMurdo Station and New Zealand’s Scott Base.

During their time in Antarctica, the crew of the Polar Star worked closely with the Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (CCAMLR) to support the secure and sustainable management of the Southern Ocean. The crew’s efforts to monitor fishing activities and other operations in the region helped safeguard resources and U.S. national interests. Additionally, the Polar Star conducted a crew exchange with the New Zealand Defense Force ship Aotearoa to further enhance cooperation between the two nations.

Having traveled nearly 16,000 miles since departing from Seattle in November, the Polar Star celebrated its 49th year of service to the nation during this mission. The cutter, commissioned in 1976, is the United States’ only asset capable of providing access to both Polar Regions. Equipped with powerful engines, the Polar Star plays a crucial role in supporting scientific research, environmental conservation, and national security efforts in the challenging polar environments.

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